How to Jack Up Camper: Expert Tips for Safe and Easy Jacking

The ability to lift your camper is an essential skill for any RV enthusiast. Whether you’re tackling maintenance, performing repairs, or simply need to access the underside for cleaning, knowing how to jack up your camper safely and effectively is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right jack to understanding safety precautions and proper lifting techniques.

Why Jack Up Your Camper?

There are many reasons why you might need to jack up your camper:

• Maintenance and Repairs: Accessing the underside of your camper is essential for various maintenance and repair tasks, such as brake inspections, tire changes, and even replacing the water heater.
• Leveling: If your campsite is uneven, you might need to jack up one side of your camper to level it out for a comfortable and stable stay.
• Storage: Elevating your camper can help prevent damage from rodents and moisture, especially during long-term storage.
• Cleaning: A lifted camper allows for easier access to the undercarriage for thorough cleaning and removal of debris.

Choosing the Right Jack

The type of jack you need will depend on the size and weight of your camper. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:

• Scissor Jacks: These are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for smaller campers or for use as emergency jacks. However, they have a limited lifting capacity and are not suitable for heavy-duty lifting.
• Hydraulic Jacks: Hydraulic jacks offer greater lifting capacity and are easier to operate than scissor jacks. They are a good choice for mid-sized campers and can be found in both manual and electric models.
• Winch Jacks: Winch jacks provide the highest lifting capacity and are often used for heavy-duty tasks like lifting large campers or trailers. They are typically powered by electric motors and require a secure mounting point.
• RV Leveling Jacks: These specialized jacks are designed for leveling campers and provide a smooth and controlled lift. They are often electric and come with a remote control for easy operation.

Safety First: Essential Precautions

Safety should always be your top priority when jacking up your camper. Here are some crucial precautions to follow:

• Choose a Stable Surface: Ensure the ground is firm and level before placing the jack. Avoid soft surfaces like grass or gravel, as they can cause the jack to sink.
• Use Cribbing: Place sturdy blocks or cribbing under the jack to distribute the weight and prevent the jack from sinking.
• Never Exceed the Jack’s Capacity: Always check the load rating of your jack and never exceed it. Overloading a jack can lead to failure and potentially cause serious injury.
• Use Safety Stands: Once your camper is lifted, use safety stands to support the weight and prevent the jack from failing. Never rely solely on the jack to hold the weight of your camper.
• Engage the Parking Brake: Always engage the parking brake before jacking up the camper to prevent it from rolling.
• Chock the Wheels: Use wheel chocks to secure the wheels on the ground and prevent the camper from moving.
• Use Proper Lifting Points: Refer to your camper’s owner’s manual for the designated lifting points. Using the wrong points can damage the chassis.
• Wear Safety Glasses and Gloves: Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from potential hazards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Jacking Up Your Camper

1. Prepare the Area: Clear the area around the camper of any debris or obstacles. Ensure the ground is firm and level.
2. Engage the Parking Brake: Engage the parking brake to prevent the camper from rolling.
3. Chock the Wheels: Use wheel chocks to secure the wheels on the ground.
4. Locate the Lifting Points: Refer to your camper’s owner’s manual to identify the designated lifting points.
5. Place the Jack: Position the jack under the designated lifting point and ensure it is on a solid and level surface.
6. Use Cribbing: Place cribbing under the jack to distribute the weight and prevent sinking.
7. Start Lifting: Slowly and carefully begin lifting the camper.
8. Use Safety Stands: Once the camper is lifted to the desired height, place safety stands under the chassis to support the weight.
9. Remove the Jack: Carefully remove the jack from under the camper.
10. Lower the Camper: When you’re ready to lower the camper, remove the safety stands and slowly lower it back to the ground.

Maintaining Your Jack

To ensure your jack continues to operate safely and effectively, it’s crucial to maintain it regularly. Here are some tips for maintaining your jack:

• Inspect the Jack: Regularly inspect the jack for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. Check the lifting mechanism, the base, and the handle for any issues.
• Lubricate the Jack: Lubricate the moving parts of the jack with a suitable lubricant to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Test the Jack: Periodically test the jack by lifting a light load to ensure it is working properly.
• Store the Jack Properly: Store the jack in a clean and dry place to prevent damage and corrosion.

A Word on Alternative Lifting Methods

While jacking is the most common method for lifting campers, there are alternative options available:

• RV Leveling Systems: These systems use a network of hydraulic or electric jacks to level and stabilize your camper. They can also be used to lift the camper for maintenance or repairs.
• Air Bags: Air bags can be used to lift the camper by inflating them under the tires. This is a convenient option for leveling and can be used for some maintenance tasks.

Beyond the Lift: Utilizing Your Lifted Camper

Once your camper is safely lifted, you can utilize this opportunity for various tasks:

• Undercarriage Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the undercarriage for any signs of damage, rust, or leaks.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean the undercarriage of dirt, debris, and grime.
• Repairs and Modifications: Perform necessary repairs, such as replacing brake lines, repairing leaks, or installing new accessories.

Time to Take Flight: Embarking on Your Lifting Journey

Understanding how to jack up your camper safely and effectively is an essential skill for any RV enthusiast. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently lift your camper for maintenance, repairs, or simply to access the undercarriage for cleaning. Always prioritize safety, use the right equipment, and remember to maintain your jack regularly. With the right knowledge and tools, you can confidently embark on your lifting journey and keep your camper in top shape for many adventures to come.

What You Need to Know

Q: How often should I inspect my jack?

A: It’s a good practice to inspect your jack before each use and at least once a year.

Q: Can I use a car jack to lift my camper?

A: It’s not recommended to use a car jack for lifting a camper, as they typically lack the lifting capacity and stability required for the weight of an RV.

Q: What is the best way to level my camper?

A: The best way to level your camper depends on the type of campsite and the available tools. Using leveling blocks or an RV leveling system are common methods.

Q: What should I do if my jack fails while lifting my camper?

A: If your jack fails, immediately lower the camper slowly and carefully using the safety stands. Never attempt to lift the camper with a damaged jack.